Olive Garden Mac and Cheese Recipe
Homemade olive garden mac and cheese recipe with cheddar, cream, garlic, and pasta creates rich creamy comfort in every bite.
Equipment
- Large pot
- Colander
- Large saucepan
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon
- Cheese grater
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 9x13-inch baking dish (optional)
- Oven mitts
Ingredients
- 16 ounces elbow macaroni
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese freshly shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
- 1 cup parmesan cheese freshly grated
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs optional topping
- 2 tablespoons melted butter for topping
Optional add-ins:
- Grilled chicken
- Crispy bacon
- Broccoli florets
- Red pepper flakes
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the elbow macaroni until just al dente according to package directions. Drain and lightly toss with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
- Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream while whisking continuously. Continue whisking until the sauce becomes smooth and slightly thickened.
Step 3: Add the Cheese
- Lower the heat.
- Add the cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan cheese gradually while stirring.
- The sauce should become silky, creamy, and rich.
- Season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce.
- Stir gently until every piece of pasta is coated.
- At this point, the smell becomes absolutely incredible. The garlic, butter, and melted cheese create the kind of aroma that makes everyone wander into the kitchen asking for a taste.
Step 5: Optional Baking Step
- If you love baked mac and cheese, transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the top.
- Bake at 375°F for about 15 minutes until lightly golden.
Step 6: Serve Hot
- Serve immediately while warm and creamy.
- Top with extra parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley if desired.